Best Houston to Oakland Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Houston to Oakland Movers

Moving from the bustling energy of Space City to the innovative spirit of the Bay Area marks not just a change of scenery, but a thrilling adventure in your life. Leaving behind Houston's sprawling landscapes and warm, Southern hospitality for Oakland's diverse neighborhoods, rich cultural tapestry, and iconic skyline is a journey worth every step. To ensure this significant transition is smooth and stress-free, securing the expertise of trusted and reliable professional movers is paramount; that's where we come in, offering meticulously ranked moving services to fit your unique needs.

Texas iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Houston to Oakland Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Fairprice Movers8.87NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Pinpoint Movers8.76A+Authorized For HHGContact
Right Rate Movers of Houston8.67NRActiveContact
Go Movers8.51NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Houston guide.

5 Best Houston to Oakland Moving Companies

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Fairprice Movers Logo
Superb8.87/10
based on 325+ data points

About Fairprice Movers

Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized mo...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial and Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2192738 / 768242

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved89,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Pinpoint Movers Logo
Superb8.76/10
based on 2,347+ data points

About Pinpoint Movers

Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all you...Read More >>

Services

  • Homepage:
  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3070055 / 944442

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Right Rate Movers of Houston Logo
Fabulous8.67/10
based on 3,973+ data points

About Right Rate Movers of Houston

Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability and efficie...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Labor Only
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2200927 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
4
Go Movers Logo
Fabulous8.51/10
based on 401+ data points

About Go Movers

Go Movers has been serving as Houston, TX's trusted relocation experts for the past 10 years. They provide both local and nationwide moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Nationwide moves
  • Cheap moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3790949 / 1365663

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Houston vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be an exciting, yet daunting, transition. To ease this process, we've matched popular neighborhoods in Houston, TX & Oakland, CA , helping you find similar vibes in your new locale. Think of this as a guide to familiarize yourself with new surroundings by leveraging what you already know and love.

HoustonOaklandHow They're Similar
The HeightsRockridgeVibrant community, local shops
MontroseTemescalEclectic, artsy vibe
River OaksPiedmont AvenueUpscale, historic charm
MidtownUptownLively nightlife, art scene
EaDo (East Downtown)Jack London DistrictIndustrial, waterfront setting
West UniversityRockridgeWell-educated community, family-friendly
Galleria/UptownEmeryvilleShopping district, modern living
Clear LakeAlamedaFamily-oriented, peaceful waterfront
Rice MilitaryWest OaklandUrban, close to amenities
Greenway/Upper KirbyLakeshoreUpscale, accessible outdoor activities

If you're drawn to the vibrant, community-focused atmosphere of The Heights in Houston, with its unique blend of historic architecture and locally-owned businesses, you'll find a similar vibe in Rockridge, Oakland. Rockridge not only mirrors this sense of community but also boasts excellent restaurants like Wood Tavern and shopping along College Avenue. Meanwhile, Houston's Montrose, known for its eclectic and artsy personality, finds its match in Oakland's Temescal. Temescal is a hub for artists and foodies alike, with popular spots like Cholita Linda and the Temescal Farmers Market drawing in locals and visitors to enjoy its diverse, vibrant community.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Houston to Oakland

Moving across the country can be a life-changing decision, packed with various implications. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of the relocation from Houston, TX, to Oakland, CA. By laying out the pros and cons side by side, you can make an informed decision tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.

CONs
PROs
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • Higher humidity
  • Limited public transit
  • Lower cost of living
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Better public transit options
  • Rich cultural scene
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Lesser food variety
  • Smaller green spaces
Houston, TX iconHouston, TX
  • Affordable housing
  • Diverse food scene
  • Numerous parks

Moving from Houston to Oakland, you'll say goodbye to Texas's intense humidity and hello to the Bay Area's temperate climate, allowing for comfortable outdoor activities year-round. Oakland's vibrant cultural scene is unmatched, with iconic neighborhoods like Temescal offering an array of eclectic eateries such as Cholita Linda and artisan coffee shops like Blue Bottle Coffee. While Houston is renowned for its affordability and spacious parks like Hermann Park, Oakland counters with legendary sights like Muir Woods National Monument and bustling waterfronts at Jack London Square, offering both urban and natural escapes. The transition may involve adjusting to higher costs and more compact living spaces, but the cultural enrichment and natural beauty of the Bay Area present a compelling trade-off.

Houston vs. Oakland Food Guide

When relocating, it's vital to immerse in the new locale's culture, and what's more culturally telling than food? In this guide, we'll outline a comparison of the local cuisine between Houston & Oakland to help you get acquainted with the culinary scenes of your current and future homes.

HoustonOakland
Most iconic local food itemTexas BBQSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishBrisketChicken and Waffles
Most popular street food itemTacosBurritos
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQ SandwichTempeh Reuben
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Killen's BBQ
  • Hugo’s
  • The Breakfast Klub
  • Chez Panisse
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
  • Shakewell
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Exploring Houston, you'll quickly discover its rich blend of flavors, particularly the revered Texas BBQ found in places like Killen's BBQ. Tacos, reflecting Houston's robust Mexican influence, are ubiquitous as street food. Meanwhile, Oakland offers a distinct culinary vibe, with sourdough bread and globally inspired dishes like chicken and waffles. Vegan diners will appreciate both cities, but Oakland's vegan scene, with offerings such as the Tempeh Reuben, might feel slightly more extensive. Popular food joints like Chez Panisse highlight Oakland's place in the farm-to-table movement, while ShakeWell introduces a modern, Mediterranean twist to the local scene.

Houston vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison

Whether you're moving to a new city for work, adventure, or a fresh start, finding places where you can enjoy a great meal makes the transition easier. This restaurant comparison between Houston and Oakland will guide you in discovering your next favorite spot, paralleling your culinary experiences from Houston to your new home in Oakland.

HoustonOaklandWhat You'll Love
UchiShakewellBoth offer innovative takes on their respective cuisines, with Uchi focusing on Japanese while Shakewell presents a Mediterranean twist.
Truth BBQSmokin' Woods BBQA true match for BBQ enthusiasts, both joints serve up smoky, tender meats that prioritize flavor and authenticity.
The Breakfast KlubGrand Lake KitchenBoth spots are known for their hearty, comforting breakfasts and brunches that provide a great start to any day.
Ninfa's on NavigationCosechaSimilar in passion for traditional Mexican cuisine, both establishments offer dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
XochiDoña TomasBoth celebrate the richness of Mexican cuisine with special attention to regional dishes and ingredients.
Hugo'sCalaveraBoth restaurants explore the depth of Mexican cuisine with innovative dishes and a strong commitment to authenticity.
Kirby Ice HouseMad Oak BarBoth are vibrant social spots offering a wide selection of drinks, making them perfect for evenings out with friends.
Chris Shepherd's UB PreservCommisWhile the dining experiences differ, both restaurants are driven by a commitment to innovative gastronomy and high quality.
Mala Sichuan BistroShandong RestaurantBoth excel in delivering authentic Chinese cuisine that focuses on spicy Sichuan dishes and handmade noodles.
Brennan's of HoustonBay Fung Tong Tea HouseBoth offer a unique blend of fine dining with a focus on regional specialties, Brennan's with a Creole twist and Bay Fung Tong with Cantonese flavors.

When you move from Houston to Oakland, you don't have to leave behind the culinary experiences you love. In Oakland, you'll find a vibrant food scene that mirrors the diversity and quality of Houston's dining. For instance, if you've relished the innovative Japanese dishes at Uchi, Shakewell in Oakland awaits with its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that's just as inventive. Similarly, BBQ lovers who enjoyed Truth BBQ's smoky flavors will find a worthy counterpart in Smokin' Woods BBQ in Oakland, where the emphasis on traditional smoking techniques and high-quality meats continues. It's about discovering new favorites while recognizing the flavors and experiences that feel like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Houston vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, considering the real estate differences between Houston, TX and Oakland, CA is crucial. Understanding the aspects of housing such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle offerings will significantly impact your decision. Let's take a closer look at how these two cities compare in terms of their real estate market.

ComparisonHoustonOakland
Typical Architecture StyleRanch StyleVictorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge lots, Outdoor kitchensProximity to public transit, Eco-friendly features

Between Houston and Oakland, the housing market exhibits significant differences that cater to varied preferences and lifestyles. Houston's real estate market is more affordable, with a median home price significantly lower than Oakland's, reflecting the city's sprawling layout and preference for ranch-style homes with large lots. On the other hand, Oakland boasts a higher walkability and bikeability score, embracing a more urban lifestyle with Victorian homes and an emphasis on eco-friendly features and proximity to public transit. These distinctions illustrate the diversity in living experiences between the two cities, catering to unique tastes and priorities.

Houston vs. Oakland Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Houston, TX to Oakland, CA, understanding how the weather differs between these two locations is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate changes and plan accordingly, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
94/75

Houston, TX

75/57

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
62/43

Houston, TX

58/44

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
50

Houston, TX

23

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Houston, TX

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonHoustonOakland
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersHurricanes, FloodingEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Houston to Oakland, you'll find relief in the less extreme summer temperatures and enjoy more sunny days annually in Oakland. However, the similar average annual humidity might still feel familiar. A significant change will be in the type of natural disasters to prepare for, with earthquakes and wildfires replacing Houston's hurricanes and flooding issues. Additionally, the improved air quality in Oakland could be a welcome change, especially for those with respiratory concerns. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more quickly to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Houston to Oakland

When planning a relocation, it's crucial to compare financial aspects between your current and future home. This comparison helps in understanding the economic landscape you're moving into. Houston and Oakland are both vibrant cities, but their cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities differ significantly, impacting your budget and lifestyle.

ComparisonHoustonOakland
Avg. Household Income$55,499$82,236
Cost of Living Index92.2139.1
State Income Tax0%13.3% (max rate)
Avg. Property Tax2.03%0.79%
Avg. Sales Tax8.25%9.25%
Top 3 IndustriesEnergy, Manufacturing, AeronauticsTechnology, Healthcare, Education
AffluenceModerately affluentAffluent
PovertySignificantModerate
HomelessnessNotableSignificant

Moving from Houston to Oakland, it's essential to be prepared for the significant rise in the cost of living index, with Oakland being almost twice as expensive. This increase is partially offset by higher average household incomes in Oakland; however, California's state income tax could impact your net income. The stark difference in property and sales tax rates also illustrates the contrasting tax landscapes between Texas and California. As you navigate this financial terrain, consider the economic opportunities in terms of industries dominant in each city which remarkably influence their affluence and poverty levels.

Houston vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison

Moving cities can be a significant change, especially when considering the local community's lifestyle and beliefs. This comparison provides a brief overview of the politics and religious makeup between Houston & Oakland , designed to offer insights into what you can expect from your new neighbors.

HoustonOakland
Political Make-upModerately conservative with liberal pocketsStrongly liberal/progressive
Local PoliticsDiverse political representationProgressive leadership
ReligionMix of Christian denominations with diverse religious communitiesVaried, with a significant number of non-religious residents

When moving from Houston to Oakland, you'll transition from a city with a politically diverse landscape to one with a strongly progressive stance. Houston's political environment is relatively balanced, reflecting its mix of conservative and liberal viewpoints. In contrast, Oakland's political arena is predominantly progressive, with local government and community initiatives often leaning towards liberal policies. Regarding religion, both cities host diverse religious communities; however, Oakland features a larger portion of its population identifying as non-religious, reflecting the city's broad spectrum of beliefs and values. This shift represents not just a change in scenery but also a new cultural and communal context.

Houston vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Houston, TX to Oakland, CA requires understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Houston & Oakland will help you visualize what to expect as you transition from one city to the other.

ComparisonHoustonOakland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3030
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingEasier

The average commute time in both Houston and Oakland is roughly 30 minutes, though your experience may vary depending on specific locations within each city. Oakland edges out a bit ahead with a lower traffic congestion rating of 6 out of 10, compared to Houston's 7. Public transit in Oakland scores higher, reflecting the Bay Area's robust BART system and other local transit options which facilitate getting around without a car more feasibly than in Houston. In Houston, the spread-out nature of the city makes reliance on a vehicle more common, with public transit options being less available than in its Californian counterpart.

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